Thanksgiving Banners 2014

Con-Quest inmates help brighten two homeless shelters this Thanksgiving

When those in need show up at two homeless shelters this week they'll be greeted by brightly painted festive banners thanks to inmates at the Utah State Prison.

The inmates, who are participating in the Con-Quest program at the prison, decided to do the banners as a service project for Thanksgiving. Therapist Krysti Dagley found some design options and the inmates selected those they wanted to paint.

"The people who have that talent or interest jumped in to do it," Dagley said. "They find it very therapeutic to have that art time and know they are helping others. It also unifies the dorm to know they are working on a project together."

The project was especially meaningful for some inmates because they have experienced homelessness first hand, Dagley said.

Dagley delivered the banners to the Rescue Haven for use at the Rescue Mission of Salt Lake meal on Wednesday and to Family Promise Salt Lake.

Our mission: Our dedicated team of professionals ensures public safety by effectively managing offenders while maintaining close collaboration with partner agencies and the community. Our team is devoted to providing maximum opportunities for offenders to make lasting changes through accountability, treatment, education, and positive reinforcement within a safe environment.